The dedication and loyalty of 43 volunteers was recognised by the Friends of Airedale charity at its Annual General Meeting, with long service certificates representing nearly 400 years of combined service were awarded.
Airedale NHS Foundation Trust chief operating officer Rob Aitchison presented some of them at the meeting where he said the role of volunteers at the hospital – covering everything from running the hospital shops and cafes to helping visitors find their way around the building – was vital to its overall running.
He said: “It has been a difficult two years and we are so grateful for everything you continue to do and the support you provide. We couldn’t do it without you.”
Earlier the meeting, held at Glusburn Institute on 4th October, heard from chairman John Lofthouse who said: “The past couple of years have been the most challenging ever for the charity but it is thanks to the continued support and help of our volunteers that we have got through it.
“This year we have continued to see the return of volunteers to their roles in different sections, including from April to September this year, our monthly car boot sales which have brought in an additional £2,770 in funds. Our ward trolley service has also restarted.”
The meeting heard that the gradual return to normality had also been reflected in the charity’s income. In her financial report for the 2021/22 financial year Catherine Hill of Stirk Lambert accountants said that while COVID had still impacted income for the charity, it had improved significantly from the previous year when the pandemic had taken a severe toll. The balance sheet was now edging closer to pre-pandemic levels.
John Lofthouse added: “The Friends of Airedale is undoubtedly a very special organisation and there is now a great feeling of positivity among volunteers. I am sure that with their continued support things will continue to improve.”
Of the 43 volunteers who received their long service certificates, four were presented with 20-year awards; six with 15 years; 11 with 10 years; and 22 volunteers received five-year service certificates.
Friends of Airedale is a group of volunteers dedicated to supporting Airedale General Hospital by undertaking a number of roles within the hospital and in the community. It also raises money to buy equipment to benefit patients and – in the past – has donated between £150,000 to £200,000 worth of equipment and services to the Airedale NHS Foundation Trust each year.
Picture above shows: John Lofthouse (back left) and Rob Aitchison presenting long service certificates to (from front left): Jenny Crompton (on behalf of Michael Piercy), Michael Broadley and Margaret Shaw.
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